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13.5.13

Lighten Up!

I did a little bit of refreshing on the 'ol mantel. It was time to (literally) lighten up. As in, all things WHITE!

I like the simple, clean and understated approach that using only white elements offers.

My Spring mantel was still relevant (since it is still Spring), but had a lot of Easter influence so it was time to shake it up a bit.

Since my last few mantels have been quite full, I wanted something a little less dense this time - and with an airier feeling about it. Plus I think I was inspired by my new curtains :). It's the first mantel I've done since I installed them and I think the graphic nature of them (and the colour palette) led me in this direction.

I used what I already had on hand, and the elements themselves are quite simple. First I took a white frame and framed some shells photos that I got from 'google images'. To tone them down a bit (keeping with the light, white feeling) I actually put a white box over them (in my design program - Adobe Indesign) and set the opacity to 25%. Basically what that did was make the shells a softer colour. Then I just printed it out on my colour laser printer.

This candle holder is one I've had for years I lovingly call it my 'swiss cheese holder'. As you can imagine, it makes a funky circle pattern when the candle inside is lit.

And lastly are these tree bark vases that I got back in the fall. I have used them on every mantel since I purchased them. (Seriously, check it out: Fall, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Spring) I love the shape and finish - and even love them without flowers in them. I often use them just by themselves 'as is'.

What about you guys? Get up to any refreshing around your house lately? And new mantels? If so, I bet you can safely say you didn't use any swiss cheese or bark on yours... which is a lot more than I can say ;).